Whether you realize it or not, you’ve already heard the distinctive tune “Mundian To Bach Ke.” Now, the UK DJ behind the global music sensation makes his Bangkok debut at 808.

Why the name Punjabi MC?

I started out as a rapper/MC, rapping with Punjabi lyrics and my friends gave me the name Indian MC. I told them that the language I was using was not Indian but Punjabi so that’s how I got the name.

Did you anticipate the success of “Mundian to Bach Ke?”

I knew the track was big because of the reaction it got when I played it at my shows, but then mainstream DJ’s such as Tim Westwood started playing it and before I knew it Jay Z approached me to rap on it! The reaction has been phenomenal.

Who has been your inspiration?

Artists like James Brown, KRS1, Kuldip Manak and Dr Dre.

What’s the best part about being in the entertainment industry?

Being an entertainer. I love going to shows and playing my tracks to diverse audiences around the world. Seeing the crowd get hyped up gives me a buzz to get in the studio and produce more anthems.

What do you find most challenging?

Creating good music is a challenge for me. Knowing that people all over the world are going to be listening to my tracks challenges me to create tracks that are different. I like to develop new sounds that have original concepts.

What do you see yourself doing in 20 years?

Retiring!

What do you prefer performing live or recording in the studio?

I enjoy both. Seeing a track that I have created getting a good reaction on the dance floor is always a buzz.

Your favorite audience…

I have performed live all over the world and the experience is always different. I like performing everywhere, from small events to large festivals, as long as the crowd is hyped and excited, it’s always good.

Punjabi music is…

Hypnotic, vibrant and creative.